General Moving FAQs

What makes a move an interstate move?

If yours is an interstate move it will be governed by FMCSA rules and regulations. Check the scenarios below in order to determine if your move is interstate. If you are still unclear about whether or not your move is considered interstate, check with your mover and state and local authorities for clarification.

Interstate move means transportation of goods in the United States which is between a state and a place outside of that state (including a place outside the United States); or between two places within a state that travels through another state or place outside of the United States.

It is an interstate move if the move...

occurs between a place in a state and a place outside of that state (i.e., in another state). Even if other modes of transportation, such as plane or rail, are involved in moving the goods... as long as the goods cross a state line and involve a mover at any point, it is an interstate move, and at least the portion involving the mover is governed by FMCSA rules and regulations. The moving truck or van does not have to physically cross a state line for it to be an interstate move.

occurs between a place in a state and a place outside of the United States. The intent of the move can define whether the move is interstate. In this example, the move begins outside the state and goes to a warehouse—not the final destination—within the state. Nevertheless, since the move originated outside the state it is characterized as an interstate move.

occurs between two places in the same state if the shipment passes through another state.

occurs between two places in the same state if the shipment passes through a place outside the United States.

What is the difference between a mover and a broker?

When you're choosing a mover did you know that some companies are moving brokers?

What is a moving broker?

A moving broker is not a mover. A broker does not assume responsibility for, and is not authorized to transport, your household goods. Brokers do not have moving trucks or professional movers. Brokers for interstate moves are required to use only movers that are registered with FMCSA. Moving brokers are sales teams that book your move and sell it to an actual moving company.

Sometimes the broker is not able to sell the job for various reasons - low estimates, availability, resources and the list goes on - in this case you can get stuck without a mover on the day of your move. Many moving brokers operate from call centers located anywhere in the country.

When you book your move make sure to ask the company whether they are an actual moving company or broker. For example, ABC Moving is a local moving company with an office (and supervisors) close to you that can assist with any problems or concerns that may arise during the moving process. To ensure this, confirm that the company uses their own crews and trucks to pick up your shipment.

Moving Broker Checklist

A household goods broker arranges transportation by connecting people that need their shipment of household goods transported with movers that are capable and willing to transport their shipment for compensation. The broker does not operate the truck, or handle the shipment but does make all the arrangements for the truck and labor to load and unload the shipment. Brokers can provide estimates for service on behalf of motor carriers based on the rates in the motor carrier's tariff.

FMCSA has strengthened consumer protections when you utilize a broker to arrange for the transportation of your Household Goods. All household goods brokers must:

Base binding or non-binding estimates on the tariff of the mover that will transport your shipment;

Reference in their advertisements their physical business location, MC number, and their status as a broker that does not transport household goods but arranges for this service; and

Have the mover that is transporting your shipment perform a physical survey of your household goods if they are within a 50-mile radius of the mover or its agent's location, whichever is closer. It is your option to waive this requirement.

To check whether your broker or mover is registered with FMCSA and/or check its complaint history, use our search tool.

What if my mover increases the agreed price?

If the mover increases the price after loading the truck, you are not required to pay more than 100% of the binding estimate or 110% of the non-binding estimate. The mover is required to bill any additional charges 30 days after delivery of your goods.

What if my mover disappears with my possessions?

Complaint Tool and Hotline FAQ

How can my complaint make a difference?

The Household Goods Consumer online complaint tool and toll-free hotline is your chance to help identify motor carriers and brokers who are reported to have engaged in violations of the commercial regulations.

What are some examples of motor carrier and broker complaints?

My mover is holding my shipment hostage for more money than he quoted me (in excess of 110% of non-binding estimate).

My (interstate) mover/broker does not have the required authority from the FMCSA (unauthorized operations).

My (interstate) mover/broker does not have the required insurance on file with the FMCSA (uninsured operations).

My mover/broker failed to acknowledge, process and settle my loss and damage within 120 days of receipt.

My mover/broker does not belong to a dispute settlement to handle loss and damage claims.

How does the complaint process work?

Your complaint will be entered into FMCSA's National Consumer Complaint Database and will be used for analytical and statistical purposes. Your complaint will also be maintained in the carriers' file as part of its permanent record. If FMCSA decides to take enforcement action against the mover/broker you may be contacted to provide additional information and documentation.

How do I file a commercial complaint?

File a complaint electronically using the Household Goods Consumer Complaint Web Site or by dialing the toll-free number at 1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238). The HOTLINE is a nationwide toll-free number where consumers, movers and brokers can call between the hours of 8:00 am and 8:00 pm Monday through Friday Eastern Time.

In addition to FMCSA, are there other authorities I should contact to report a fraudulent mover?